"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

As we seek to find new ways of restoring confidence, trust and hope, and of overcoming misunderstanding and division, we find in the Gospel of John words that not only hold and bind us together, but also words that challenge us to look at how we function and live as a community.

The Christmas story is not an abstract message of hope in a distant time and land. The birth of Jesus is a story that invites us to participate. How do we play our part? Revd Canon Christopher Burke explores "God with us".

"Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." Isaiah 7:14

The Dean of Sheffield, Peter Bradley reflects on the power of the Lord's prayer and its ability to meet our deepest needs of God.

"And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him." Matt 6:7-8

Reflection on the Kingdom of God invites us to look backwards in history, to learn, celebrate, lament, and grow in understanding and faith. It also offers us the opportunity to play our part in making the characteristics of the Kingdom of God a reality today.

"I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth." Job 19:25

Even if we as a Cathedral community call ourselves a place for all people, others may not always experience that reality. When people see us, do they see a community of Pharisees or a people able to demonstrate the reality of the God's love?

“I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Luke 18:14

Where do we place the value of money and material possessions in our lives? Revd Canon Christopher Burke reflects on the challenges found in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus found in Luke chapter 16.

Revd Catherine Staziker explores three of Jesus' parables about the lost and found in Luke's gospel.

"'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent." Luke 15:6-7